Drama Production in Networks: Starting Points, Methods and First Results

This chapter explains the two concepts of “project network” and “screen idea work group”, which form a central basis for the investigation of Germany’s television practitioners. The methodology employed builds on these two models, especially because the study includes interviews conducted with members of such screenwriting and production networks. In addition to the expert interview method, that of participant observation is presented in more detail. Subsequently, this chapter discusses the analysis and interpretation of the data obtained. Here, the project network and the screen idea work group (in addition to more fundamental considerations from media industry studies and production studies) once again represent an important basis of analysis. The final part of this chapter illustrates these models by discussing the role of commissioning editors. How are they involved in project-based screenwriting and production work? In what ways is their hybrid profession changing amid Germany’s diversified television landscape?